<p>Join us on Saturday, November 30 that 4:30 PM to meet the talented author in person. She will be signing copies of both The Girls of Haviland (2023) and the new release sequel Beyond Haviland (2024)</p><p><br></p><p>About the author: "I'm a self published author and elementary school teacher. I'm so very excited for the debut of my first YA novel, The Girls of Haviland. I love nothing more than researching women's history. I am particularly drawn to the history of the Hudson Valley Region in New York, the Women's Suffrage Movement, and the World War One years.</p><p><br></p><p>The idea for The Girls of Haviland came to me when I saw a picture of students at a private girls' school taken at the turn of the twentieth century in Carmel, New York. I used this picture and archival articles from a local newspaper to create a historical fiction story that examines issues which will resonate with contemporary readers."</p><p>Find out more about the author at <a href="https://deborahoswald.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://deborahoswald.com/</a></p><p><br></p><p>Light refreshments will be served. Free parking. Restrooms available.</p><p><br></p><p>The BookSmiths Shoppe <a href="https://booksmithsshoppe.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://booksmithsshoppe.com/</a></p><p><span style="color: rgb(111, 114, 135);">100 Reserve Road #1st Floor Danbury, CT 06810</span></p><p><br></p><p>RSVP here: <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/book-signing-with-author-deborah-oswald-saturday-1130-at-430-pm-tickets-1091747027749?aff=oddtdtcreator" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/book-signing-with-author-deborah-oswald-saturday-1130-at-430-pm-tickets-1091747027749</a></p><p><br></p>

<p>Putnam Community Action Partnership (CAP), a local not-for-profit organization dedicated to</p><p>providing services to Putnam County’s low-income community members, is excited to announce</p><p>the expansion of its soup kitchen program during the winter months. Starting December 1st, the</p><p>soup kitchen will now be open on Fridays, in addition to Tuesdays, Wednesdays &amp; Thursdays</p><p>from 12:00 – 1:00 pm at the First Baptist Church. through the month of April.</p><p><br></p><p>This expansion is made possible by the generous support of the Southeast Rotary Club, whose</p><p>contribution allows Putnam CAP to enhance its capacity and reach even more individuals in</p><p>need. The added day of service will help provide hundreds of additional meals to the local</p><p>community, ensuring that no one has to go without a warm meal.</p><p><br></p><p>"We are deeply grateful for the Southeast Rotary Club’s commitment to fighting hunger and</p><p>supporting our mission," said Marisa O’Leary, Director of Putnam CAP. "This partnership</p><p>allows us to significantly increase our impact and provide much-needed relief to those who need</p><p>it most. We believe that everyone deserves access to healthy, nutritious food, and this expansion</p><p>is a critical step in achieving that goal."</p><p><br></p><p>Since its founding, Putnam CAP has been dedicated to addressing hunger in the community,</p><p>offering free meals to individuals and families, no questions asked. The soup kitchen serves</p><p>approximately 300 meals each week, and with the added day, the organization anticipates an</p><p>additional 100 meals will be served weekly.</p><p><br></p><p>The Southeast Rotary Club, known for its community-oriented initiatives, is a valued supporter</p><p>of local programs that make a tangible difference in people's lives. Their partnership with</p><p>Putnam CAP will help ensure that the community’s most vulnerable are not overlooked.</p><p><br></p><p>“The Southeast Rotary Club is proud to support the work of Putnam CAP and help extend its</p><p>reach to even more individuals who are struggling to make ends meet,” said Barbara Evans,</p><p>President of Southeast Rotary Club. “This initiative reflects our commitment to serving those in</p><p>need and making a positive impact in our community.”</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about Putnam CAP and how you can get involved, please visit <a href="http://www.putanmcap.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.putanmcap.org</a> or call (845) 278-8021.</p>

<p><span style="color: rgb(5, 5, 5);">It’s not too late to support Putnam CA</span>It’s not too late to support Putnam CAP’s holiday programs! Please consider donating today!</p><p><br></p><p>Please help us to ensure that every family, regardless of socio-economic status, enjoys the holiday season!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>HOW YOU CAN HELP&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>THANKSGIVING</p><p>We are accepting donations of turkeys and $25 gift cards to local grocery stores&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E186719&amp;id=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">CLICK HERE TO MAKE A MONETARY&nbsp;DONATION&nbsp;&nbsp;</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(5, 5, 5);">HOLIDAY TOYS&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(5, 5, 5);">Donate $50 gift cards to stores such as Kohl's, Walmart &amp; Amazon so that parents can purchase holiday toys&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(5, 5, 5);">HOLIDAY TOY GIFT CARDS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED WITH THANKSGIVING FOOD&nbsp;</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(5, 5, 5);">ALL DONATIONS ARE NEEDED BY NOVEMBER 15, 2024&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(5, 5, 5);">P’s holiday programs! Please consider donating today!</span></p>

<p>It's Election Day and it’s important to be prepared to cast your vote smoothly and confidently. Whether you're voting for the first time or returning to the polls, knowing where to go, what to bring, and what to do if something goes wrong can help ensure your voice is heard. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate the process and make your vote count.</p><p><strong>Find Your Polling Location</strong></p><p>Polling places can change, so it’s important to double-check where you need to vote. Visit <a href="http://www.vote411.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.VOTE411.org</a> or contact your local elections office for the correct polling location for your county, city, or state.</p><p><strong>Bring Identification</strong></p><p>Some states may require you to show ID at the polls. To avoid delays, bring a valid photo ID, such as your driver’s license. In some areas, documents like a current utility bill, paycheck, or other official papers that display your name and address may also be accepted.</p><p><strong>What If Your Name Isn’t On the List?</strong></p><p>Don’t worry if you registered to vote but your name is not on the voter roll. Poll workers are there to assist you, and you should be offered a provisional ballot or directed to the correct polling location to ensure your vote is counted.</p><p><strong>Ask for Help if You Need It</strong></p><p>Poll workers are available to guide you through the voting process, whether that’s explaining how to use the voting machine or assisting with a provisional ballot. Be sure to look for posted instructions and voter rights information at the polling station. If you experience any issues, don't hesitate to ask for help or file a complaint.</p><p><strong>Stay in Line and Cast Your Vote</strong></p><p>Lines may be long, but it’s worth the wait. Stay in line and make sure you vote—it’s important! The outcome of this election could have a lasting impact on your community and country.</p><p><strong>If You Encounter Problems on Election Day, Call:</strong></p><ul><li>1-866-MYVOTE1</li><li>1-866-OUR-VOTE</li><li>1-888-VE-Y-VOTA</li></ul><p>For more information, visit <a href="http://www.lwv.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.lwv.org</a>.</p>

<p>Join Judy Marano and Lois Schwartz at Books for Humanity&nbsp;67 Central Ave, Ossining, NY 10562&nbsp;on Monday, Dec. 2 at 6:30. We will discuss the mind, the body, and the spirit using the written word and essential oils. Come grab a gift or two for the holidays and browse the bookstore for unique finds.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>So I've Been Thinking is a series of stories about everyday life experiences. Although we are individuals, at the core of our being, we share the same pride in our families, traditions passed from generation to generation, and the ups and downs of life. There is an unseen web that connects each of us. While reading, you might find the corners of your mouth begin to rise; perhaps a laugh will slip through, or a tear will slide down your cheek."</p><p><a href="https://www.hvbooksforhumanity.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.hvbooksforhumanity.com/</a></p><p>--</p>

<h2 class="ql-align-center">First Annual Holiday Community Celebration &amp; Craft Market!</h2><p class="ql-align-center">December 7 &amp;8 at 10am - 4pm</p><p><br></p><p><img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/ta6/2/16/1f384.png" alt="🎄" height="16" width="16">&nbsp;<strong>What to expect at the Holiday Market</strong>&nbsp;<img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/ta6/2/16/1f384.png" alt="🎄" height="16" width="16"></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Step into a winter wonderland where the warmth of community meets the beauty of handmade artistry. Our Holiday Market promises to be an inspiring celebration of local talent, featuring:</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/t75/2/16/2728.png" alt="✨" height="16" width="16">&nbsp;Handmade art from our talented instructors, students, and local artisans</p><p><img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/tbe/2/16/1f3b6.png" alt="🎶" height="16" width="16">&nbsp;Live music to set the festive tone, with performances throughout the day</p><p><img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/t5/2/16/1f372.png" alt="🍲" height="16" width="16">&nbsp;Delicious local food vendors offering comforting seasonal bites</p><p><img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/t23/2/16/1f381.png" alt="🎁" height="16" width="16">&nbsp;Unique, one-of-a-kind gifts and crafts that support the work of local creators</p><p>Whether you’re searching for the perfect holiday gift or just looking to soak in the festive spirit, there’s something for everyone!</p><p><strong style="color: var(--geeks-body-color);">The InterArts Vision: Bringing Creativity and Community Together</strong></p><p>At Hudson Valley InterArts, our mission is to create a space where art, craft, music, movement, and community come together in harmony. We believe that through the arts, we can foster real connections, spark meaningful conversations, and bring together people from all walks of life. Our Holiday Market embodies this vision—inviting artists, makers, and visitors of all ages and backgrounds to share in the joy of the season.</p><p>We can’t wait to celebrate with you and make this holiday season even brighter. Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and come experience the magic of the InterArts Holiday Community Celebration and Craft Market!</p><p>InterArts 40 Jon Barrett Road, Patterson, NY&nbsp;</p><p>845-501-9193</p><p><br></p><p>More info: <a href="https://hudsonvalleyinterarts.org/holiday-market" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://hudsonvalleyinterarts.org/holiday-market/</a></p><p><br></p><p>Vendors!</p><p><a href="https://hudsonvalleyinterarts.org/vendor-application/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(25, 169, 229);">Click HERE to apply for vending.</a></p><p>Our application is only $20 for both days! (a tax deductible donation)</p><p>Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions!</p><p><br></p>